LGBTQIA+ Travelers

The Duke Global Education Office believes that study away should be accessible to everyone, and is committed to nurturing a richly diverse student cohort and study away community where all members feel empowered, heard, respected and supported.

How sexual identities are defined and understood varies between cultures, including the interpretation of what is considered appropriate behavior. This applies to acquaintances as well as to platonic and intimate relationships. If you are LGBTQIA+, it is important to understand that openly living your sexual orientation and/or gender identity abroad might be different from what you are accustomed to at home. Some locations and cultures are open to LGBTQIA+ individuals, while others are less accepting or even hostile. Attitudes toward sexual orientation can also vary significantly within regions of the same country, or according to different social contexts. Additionally, it will help you to be aware of individual idiosyncrasies and beliefs in your host community.  Your experience may also vary based on other aspects of your identity, and how they intersect with your sexuality and gender identity. Know that you are not alone on your study away program, and especially not if you find yourself feeling isolated due to your sexuality or gender expression. You have the support of the GEO, as well as your program providers.

For more information, review the resources listed below, and/or reach out to a GEO advisor with specific questions or concerns.

Expression of Gender, Sexual Orientation, Relationships, and Safety

A new study away location may appear to provide a safe haven for exploring sexual and gender identities free from the judgments of friends and family. However, it’s important to note that support for LGBTQIA+ rights can vary widely based on your study away location. Some locations may be more supportive of LGBTQIA+ rights than your home community is, while others stipulate punishments for same-sex sexual behavior and behaviors that transgress local gender norms. A new and potentially challenging environment does not necessarily mean you will have a negative experience abroad as long as you properly prepare yourself to navigate the local culture.

Before you leave, research the status of LGBTQIA+ rights in the location that will be hosting you, as well as others that you will be visiting. ISOS is a great resource for information about LGBTQIA+ restrictions and societal attitudes in your host country. It is important to be aware of any applicable laws pertaining to the expression of sexual orientation/gender identity, as well as the general attitudes of the local population toward LGBTQIA+ individuals. Learn as much as possible about the culture-specific norms associated with friendships, dating, and gender. Be aware that behavioral signals that mean one thing in your home culture might mean something completely different in the host culture.

While studying away, you will most likely encounter different ideologies, and you may need to adapt to different customs. This can be difficult. Some students have found it necessary to hide their sexual orientation and/or gender identity for safety reasons, while others find safe ways to express them openly. Become informed so you can have a safe and rewarding experience on your program.

If you experience discrimination/bias while on a study away program, this is not something that you have to bear alone. Please consider the following action steps:

• Contact your on-site program director/support staff
• Report via Duke Office of Institutional Equity (anonymous option available)
• Submit your concern to the Global Education Office (not anonymous)